In a bold step forward, Thales, the renowned radar technology company, is set to deliver seven more Ground Master 200 MM/C radars to the Dutch Armed Forces. This follows an initial agreement with the Dutch Ministry of Defence and is a testament to the impressive capabilities of these advanced units.
Thales first announced this arrangement back in February 2019 through the “Nederland Radarland” platform. The original deal saw the Dutch Ministry of Defence acquiring nine multi-mission radars. The total cost for these cutting-edge radars is estimated to be somewhere in the region of 100 to 250 million euros.
The Dutch Army's Material and IT Command (COMMIT), assured by the radar system's capabilities, have placed an order for seven additional units, with an option for two more.
The first of six radars was delivered to the Royal Dutch Army's “Fire Support Command.” Additionally, three other units were delegated to the Land Command for air defence duties. This new batch of radars is expected to be fully operational by the end of 2025.
Features and Benefits of GM 200 MM/C Radars
The GM 200 MM/C makes use of 4D AESA technology and boasts a rapid deployment time of merely two minutes. Designed predominantly for counter-battery operations and short-range air defence, it is a powerful tool in the hands of the armed forces.
Notable for its ability to detect and track threats within a whopping 400km radius, the GM 200 MM/C can also distinguish individual signatures from salvos – a feature that sets it apart from many of its contemporaries.
The GM 200 MM/C allows for greater time on target, mobility, rapid deployment, and long-range detection capabilities against smaller, faster, and agile targets. Additionally, given that the 4D AESA radar technology is fully digital, the radar system can evolve over time to maintain operational capabilities against evolving threats.
A Sought-After Choice
Not just the Dutch, but armed forces from Norway, Denmark, and Lithuania have also chosen the GM 200 MM/C radar system. To date, a total of 34 units have been ordered, clearly indicating the confidence and trust that these nations place in the capabilities of this advanced radar system.